The Edmonton Elks came up short against the defending Grey Cup champions, falling 35-12 to the Toronto Argonauts at BMO Field on Fright night.
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Trailing 18-11 at halftime, the Elks were unable to author their third second half comeback victory this season as the Argos outscored Edmonton 17-1 over the final 30 minutes.
Tre Ford connected with Gavin Cobb for the Canadian receiver’s first CFL regular season touchdown to pull the Elks within seven points going into halftime. Ford completed 19 of 31 passes for 220 yards, while Cobb established new career highs with four receptions for 79 yards.
We’ve seen this film before and WE LIKE IT!#OurTeamOurCity #GoElks #CFL https://t.co/ukEJpHwP6z
— Edmonton Elks (@GoElks) October 7, 2023
Edmonton’s Manny Arceneaux had his most productive game of the season, snagging four passes for 50 yards. The veteran receiver now has made a catch in 144 straight games, tying Canadian Football Hall of Famer Ben Cahoon for the fourth longest streak in CFL history, and has also taken over sole possession of 20th place on the CFL all-time reception list, moving ahead of Andy Fantuz.
“To have that legacy means a ton, because when you’re having that conversation, you start talking about some of the greats in the CFL,” Arceneaux said during a post-game interview on CISN 103.9 FM. “I’m in the same company as them, so it’s a blessing, it’s a privilege and it’s an honour.”
The Elks defence was able to get to Toronto quarterback Chad Kelly early in the game, with Edmonton defensive lineman Jake Ceresna and AC Leonard each recording their 11th sack of the season, tied for second in the CFL. Toronto turned the tables on Edmonton in the second half, with two interceptions, including an 83-yard pick-six by Wynton McManis when the Elks were driving deep into Argos trailing by 10 points in the third quarter.
Edmonton had its lowest offensive output since Week 8. The Elks had scored at least 24 points in seven consecutive games. Toronto held a 19-17 edge in first downs outgained Edmonton 313-238 in net offence.
Here’s your first look at the custom designed kicks that Tre Ford (@treford_1) will be wearing tonight for Cleats of Strength. #GoElks x @MhcareMed in support of @StolleryKids
BID NOW | https://t.co/FGocnas7fC#OurTeamOurCity #GoElks pic.twitter.com/klQ78cQklz
— Edmonton Elks (@GoElks) October 6, 2023
As part of Cleats of Strength presented by MHCare Medical, Ford wore custom-designed cleats that fans can bid on now in support of the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation. Ford kept a number of plays alive with his feet, and led Edmonton in rushing with 47 yards on seven carries.
With the loss, the Elks fall to 4-12 and are eliminated from playoff contention. Toronto, which has already clinched first place in the East Division, improves to 13-2.
Edmonton returns to action on Oct. 14, when the Montreal Alouettes visit Commonwealth Stadium for the Green and Gold’s last home game of 2023.
Don’t miss the Green and Gold’s final home game of the regular season when the Elks host the Montreal Alouettes on Oct. 14. Click here to get your tickets now and be part of the tradition.
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